Mounted Police Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving society, the focus on Mounted Police Officers has never been more critical.

Public safety continues to be a priority, and with each challenge, the need for skilled professionals who can protect, serve, and maintain law and order grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Mounted Police Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the duties of Mounted Police Officers,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Mounted Police Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Mounted Police Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Mounted Police Officers, often known as Mounties, use their horse riding skills and law enforcement training to maintain public safety and order.

This unique role requires a special set of skills and duties:

• Patrol assigned areas on horseback to enforce laws and provide public safety
• Respond to emergencies and dispatch calls, providing assistance and support as needed
• Carry out crowd control during events, parades and protests
• Interact with the public, often acting as a public relations representative for the police department
• Investigate crimes, collect evidence and apprehend suspects
• Conduct traffic control and enforcement, issuing citations as necessary
• Provide first aid and other immediate assistance to injured persons
• Participate in search and rescue operations, often in rough terrain or extreme conditions
• Maintain horse care, including feeding, grooming, and health checks
• Train and acclimate horses to various environments, sounds and situations to ensure their effectiveness in the field
• Prepare reports detailing incidents, activities, and patrol information

 

Mounted Police Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a disciplined and enthusiastic Mounted Police Officer to ensure public safety and enforce laws while patrolling assigned areas on horseback.

The ideal candidate should have excellent horse riding skills, experience in law enforcement, and the ability to interact with the public in a professional and courteous manner.

The Mounted Police Officer will be responsible for patrolling assigned areas, controlling crowds, issuing citations, and responding to emergencies.

They should also be able to use their horse to perform search and rescue operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas on horseback to enforce laws and ensure public safety.
• Provide public assistance and answer inquiries from the public.
• Control crowds and maintain order during public events.
• Respond to emergencies and provide first aid if necessary.
• Conduct search and rescue operations using horses.
• Take care of the horses including feeding, grooming, and basic medical care.
• Prepare and submit reports on activities and incidents.
• Coordinate with other law enforcement agencies when necessary.
• Attend community events to represent the police department.

 

Qualifications

• Proven law enforcement or security experience.
• Excellent horse riding skills.
• Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, and agency rules.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Physical fitness and ability to pass a thorough medical examination.
• High school diploma or equivalent. A degree in criminal justice or a related field would be advantageous.

 

Benefits

• Retirement plan
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Uniform allowance
• Training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Mounted Police Officer
• Work Environment: Outdoor and sometimes in adverse weather conditions. The job may also require working during weekends, holidays, and after hours for special events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Police Sergeant or Police Lieutenant.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our force. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Mounted Police Officer Do?

Mounted Police Officers, also known as horse patrol officers, serve and protect communities just like any other law enforcement officer, but they do so while riding horseback.

Mounted Police Officers are typically responsible for patrolling assigned areas, often in places that are not easily accessible by vehicles.

These can include parks, beaches, rugged terrains, as well as urban areas where they can easily maneuver through crowds.

They are tasked with enforcing laws, responding to emergency calls, and conducting traffic control.

They also work on maintaining public order and safety during large public gatherings and events.

These officers are skilled equestrians, taking care of their horses and ensuring their wellbeing.

This includes grooming, feeding, and exercising their horses regularly.

Furthermore, Mounted Police Officers often act as a bridge between the police and the community.

Their unique mode of transportation often encourages interaction with the public, allowing them to build rapport and trust within the community.

Lastly, they may also be involved in ceremonial duties, parades, and other community outreach programs where they showcase their horses and engage in educational activities.

 

Mounted Police Officer Qualifications and Skills

A Mounted Police Officer should have the skills and qualifications that suitably align with the requirements of this unique role, such as:

• Strong equestrian skills including riding, handling, and care of horses.
• Excellent physical fitness to endure long hours of riding and perform the necessary duties.
• Law enforcement skills to enforce local laws and ordinances effectively.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with the public in a professional and friendly manner.
• Communication skills to effectively convey information to the public, other officers, and in court proceedings.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly and effectively respond to complex situations.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions, as mounted patrolling may take place in all types of weather.
• Ability to work well in a team, often coordinating with other officers on the ground.
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and procedures.
• Keen observational skills to detect suspicious activities or safety concerns while patrolling.

 

Mounted Police Officer Experience Requirements

Mounted Police Officers usually start their career as a regular police officer, where they gain a substantial amount of practical experience during their initial years.

This includes obtaining a solid understanding of law enforcement procedures, criminal law, and community policing.

To become a Mounted Police Officer, candidates must have at least 2-3 years of service as a police officer.

This allows them to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to handle a different set of challenges that come with patrolling on horseback.

In addition to their policing experience, some Mounted Police Units require candidates to have a certain amount of horse-riding experience.

This could be achieved through personal experience, professional equestrian training, or even police academy horse-riding lessons.

Once in the role, Mounted Police Officers continue to gain experience working in a variety of environments, from urban areas to parks and rural areas.

They also get specialized training in crowd control, search and rescue, and various equestrian skills.

Officers with more than 5 years of experience as a Mounted Police Officer may have developed leadership skills and could be considered for supervisory or training roles within the Mounted Police Unit.

 

Mounted Police Officer Education and Training Requirements

To become a Mounted Police Officer, candidates must first meet the basic requirements and complete the necessary education and training for a career in law enforcement.

This typically involves earning a high school diploma or equivalent, although some departments may require or prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.

Before becoming a Mounted Police Officer, individuals must first serve as a regular police officer.

This involves attending a police academy where they undergo rigorous training in areas such as law enforcement principles, self-defense, firearms usage, and emergency response.

Once serving as a police officer, those interested in becoming a Mounted Police Officer usually need a few years of experience in law enforcement.

They can then apply for a position in the mounted unit of their police department, which may require additional specialized training.

This specialized training primarily focuses on horse care and riding skills, as well as crowd control techniques and patrolling on horseback.

The length and content of this training can vary significantly based on the specific requirements of the department.

While not mandatory, obtaining certification from recognized equestrian or law enforcement organizations can help demonstrate a candidate’s competence and dedication.

Ongoing training and education are also important as they can help Mounted Police Officers stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices in their field.

 

Mounted Police Officer Salary Expectations

A Mounted Police Officer earns an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary may vary based on factors such as level of experience, region, additional skills, and the specific department in which they serve.

 

Mounted Police Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Mounted Police Officer need?

Mounted Police Officers need to have a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to their duty.

They need to have excellent equestrian skills and should be comfortable handling, caring for, and riding horses in different terrains and conditions.

They should also possess good physical fitness, alertness, and problem-solving abilities.

Knowledge of law enforcement principles, good communication skills, and the ability to work well with the public are also essential.

 

Do Mounted Police Officers need a specific education or training?

While a degree is not necessarily required, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.

In addition, they will need to complete a police academy training program.

There are also specific training programs for mounted police that include equine care, crowd control, patrol procedures and tactics, and search and rescue procedures on horseback.

 

What should you look for in a Mounted Police Officer resume?

In a resume, look for previous law enforcement or military experience.

Any background in equestrian care or sports can also be valuable.

Training or certification from a recognized police academy should be highlighted.

Also, look for skills like physical fitness, public safety, and law enforcement knowledge.

 

What qualities make a good Mounted Police Officer?

A good Mounted Police Officer will have a combination of excellent riding skills and law enforcement abilities.

They should be comfortable working in different weather conditions and terrains, and be capable of handling potentially dangerous situations calmly and efficiently.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are also crucial to interact with the public and their colleagues.

 

Is it challenging to recruit Mounted Police Officers?

Recruiting for Mounted Police Officers can be a challenge due to the unique combination of skills required for the role.

Not only must candidates have law enforcement training and experience, but they must also have significant horse riding skills and a willingness to work in a variety of conditions.

Therefore, the pool of qualified candidates may be smaller than for other law enforcement roles.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve trotted behind the scenes to truly understand what it means to be a mounted police officer.

Surprise!

It’s not just about riding horses.

It’s about safeguarding communities and upholding the law, one patrol at a time.

With our handy mounted police officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to saddle up and take charge.

But why rein in there?

Gallop further with our job description generator. It’s your next stride towards precision-crafted listings or finessing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every patrol is a part of the greater mission.

Let’s maintain law and order. Together.

How to Become a Mounted Police Officer (Complete Guide)

Beyond Boring: Unusual Jobs That Spice Up the Workday

The Freedom to Choose: The Most Flexible Jobs for Personal Preference

No More Overworking: Easy Jobs That Can Make You Wealthy!

Relaxing Rewards: Discovering the Joy of Low-Stress Work